A parking grace period that gives drivers an extra hour free after their paid parking expires has been made permanent in Lisburn and Newry. The scheme, which was trialled over the Christmas period and later extended, means motorists have an hour to return to their vehicles once time runs out.

During the initial six-week trial, more than 1,000 drivers used the additional flexibility, according to Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins. The arrangement cost over £37,000 in lost parking revenue, accounting for more than a quarter of what would have been collected in those towns during the period.

Minister Kimmins said the permanent measure would support local businesses and encourage people to spend more time on high streets. She added that the scheme had continued to help the effective flow of traffic.

Business groups welcomed the move. Eamonn Connolly of Newry Business Improvement District described it as a positive step for businesses, shoppers and the wider city. Ruth Young, president of Lisburn Chamber of Commerce, said it sent a clear message that the city is open and welcoming.

The decision was criticised by some transport campaigners and a Green Party councillor. Mark Shields of the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust argued that making walking, wheeling and cycling safer would also encourage people to spend time and money in towns, and called for investment in active travel. Councillor Anthony Flynn said the parking scheme highlighted a contradiction with recent cuts proposed by Translink, adding that supporting town centres requires reliable bus services and affordable fares.

On-street parking charges in controlled parking zones are set at £1 per hour in Lisburn and 80p in Newry. The department generated more than £4m in revenue from these zones in the 2024-25 financial year. Translink recently announced plans to cut some services and promotional fares, citing severe financial pressures.